Webster Groves schedules Sept. 21 Ecoed on small-particle air pollution with national expert

The Webster Groves Sustainability Commission confirmed plans for a Sept. 21 Ecoed focused on small-particle air pollution and human health, organizers said at the April 20 meeting. The program’s working title is “Air Pollution in Webster Groves: How to Breathe Easier.”

The session will feature Jake Turner, described by commissioners as an international expert on fine-particle pollution, along with nurse Janet Noble and local electric-vehicle advocates Mike and Sasha Whitkin. Former commission member Jeff Tomich was listed as an additional local contributor. Commission members said they expect the program to frame findings from the city’s greenhouse-gas study, explain health effects from fine particulate matter, and offer residents practical, implementable actions.

“It's the stuff you can't see that kills you,” said one organizer summarizing the health rationale for focusing on small particles and ultrafine pollution. Organizers asked speakers to provide a headshot or photo, a short bio or blurb, and slides if they plan to use them; staff requested final materials six weeks before the event to allow time for flyer design, calendar submissions and social-media promotion.

Commission members discussed local angles for the program: the role of gasoline-powered yard equipment in generating fine particulates, idling near schools at the start of the school year, and electric lawn-care services as alternatives. Janet Noble was invited specifically to address health impacts and school-related exposure; the Whitkins were cited as local business owners working to expand electric vehicle services.

Staff outlined a communications timeline: confirm titles, speakers and locations six weeks before a lecture; prepare templates and marquee copy; submit copy to the Webster Kirkwood Times calendar; and run social posts and reminders two weeks and one week before the event. The commission agreed the session should end with actionable recommendations residents could implement.

The Ecoed series already has two other dates on the calendar: May 20 (Greenspace at Blackburn Park) and Aug. 17. Commission organizers said they will circulate a formal speaker/agenda draft to members and staff for final timing and venue details.

The commission did not take formal votes on programming at the meeting; next procedural steps are speaker confirmations and receipt of promotional materials six weeks before Sept. 21.